23/5057
(1) Construction of a new link road from the production plant to the wastewater treatment plant, (2) Realignment of an existing access road from Castlefarm Road to the wastewater treatment plant, (3) Associated surface water drainage, footpaths, lighting, security fencing, car parking and security gates, (4) Change of Use from 'Residential/Mixed Residential and Other Uses' to 'Mixed/General Business/Industrial Uses' for part of the new link road. Both roads will have an asphalt surface finish. This application relates to a site with an existing IPC license (P0404-02).
Core Planning Reasoning
The Inspector recommends a grant of permission because the proposed link road is an ancillary development that improves internal site efficiencies and removes heavy goods vehicle (HGV) movements from the town centre and Architectural Conservation Area, thereby enhancing traffic safety and heritage amenities.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The principle of the link road is acceptable as it facilitates the internalization of HGV movements within the dairy complex, aligning with wider town traffic management goals.
- Impacts on residential amenity, specifically regarding noise and visual intrusion for adjacent dwellings, are manageable through the provision of acoustic barriers, screen walls, and dense buffer planting.
- The development is compatible with the proper planning and sustainable development of the area as it protects the setting of Protected Structures while providing for future public pedestrian permeability toward the river corridor.